Joe Gallant ************@*****.***
Summary of Qualifications
Accomplished executive with over 25+ years of successful experience in operations management and business administration. Outstanding record of formulating improved operational processes by developing leading edge solutions and cost effective manufacturing. Extensive experience in providing project management for multiple simultaneous projects, including budgeting and administration. I enjoy the abilities learned to transfer value stream mapping to designed CAD drawings that best capitalize manufacturing flow on plant floors, taking full advantage of equipment and work cells to accomplish the best use of product flow. Proven ability to create the project vision and articulate it company wide – fostering energy and enthusiasm at all levels. Recognized for dedication to the company and employee development with a commitment to customer service, attention to detail, professionalism, and follow-up. Experience in implementing strict manufacturing policies and procedures, resulting in new products as well as improved staff efficiency and productivity. Known as manager who respects and leverages human capital, including: mentoring, motivating, and leading by example. Strategically focused with exceptional management skills to build high-performance teams and lead change in competitive environments.
Core Competencies:
Proficient in Complex Business Operations
Experience in Lean Manufacturing
Effective Problem Solving Skills
Promotes Leadership/Team Building
White Belt 6 Sigma
IT Cyber Security NIST-800-53
Professional Experience
Lapeer Industries Lapeer, MI
Director Operations / IT / Facilities / Continuous Improvement / EHS /Purchasing January 2015 – March 2018
Implemented the downsizing and restructuring of several departments throughout 5 plants as well as a building lease. Oversee plant managers – instructing on production schedules, staffing, and equipment.
Redesigned manufacturing flow throughout plants. Changed and improved equipment for several cells.
Reevaluated assets, budgets, and leases. Reestablished lines of communications with vendors and customers.
Implemented cost effective systems for control over capital, expenditures, manpower, wages, and salaries.
Developed and controlled profits, plans, and budgets. Monitored production quality output and maintenance. Initiated asset management programs to schedule and budget less equipment down time.
E&R Industrial / Grainger Sterling Heights, MI
National Sales Director / Operations Manager February 2013 – January 2015
Built a new division that facilitated manufacturing equipment needs for CNC machining, coatings, welding, die cast operations, production flow and material handling for Automotive, Aerospace, and Military clients in USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Proficiently negotiated contracts with equipment manufactures for builds and service. Brought in and turnkeyed projects for Ford Motor Company (four countries), Chrysler, and GM (4 in Michigan).
Worked with Company Owners, Plant Managers, and Operations Directors to meet production goals.
Solved manufacturing complexities through leadership, involving teams and equipment engineers.
Reviewed operational trends to insure efficient planning of scheduling and departmental coordination.
Lapeer Industries Lapeer, MI
Director Facilities / HSE / Operations January 2008 – February 2013
Served as Plant Manager at Texarkana facility with 38 employees. Created budgets for all departments.
Purchased and installed all equipment and machinery for 450,000 square feet of manufacturing space.
Created new divisions for Health and Safety, Environmental, Maintenance, as well as Operations.
Purchased equipment and buildings, hired staff, negotiated service contracts, and worked with production to layout plant manufacturing flow. Worked with clients and staff to adhere to requirements
Royal Arc Fabrication Flat Rock, MI
National Sales Manager/Director Operations/Plant Manager October 2006 – January 2008
Oversaw a team of 48 sales/service staff in 6 plants in USA, and supervised projects at client locations.
Managed crews at US Steel, ThyssenKrupp Steel, Severstal North America, Worthington Steel, and Steel Dynamics. Engineered, designed, fabricated, and installed machinery/material handling and overhead cranes.
Implemented a working culture to include involvement from entire staff which led to a successful team environment. Initiated asset management programs to schedule and budget less equipment down time.
Lowes Home Improvement – West Michigan Grand Rapids, MI
Regional Operations Manager June 2004 – September 2006
Traveled throughout 9 stores to coach, mentor, and develop sales staff, including career development planning for stores and staff. Reviewed sales numbers for all staff in department and suggested changes.
Management recognized for excellent staff interaction and for applying best practices in operations.
Sears Home Improvement Grand Rapids, MI
Regional Sales Manager May 2002 – May 2004
Evaluated contractors on their work ethic, safety, and quality of work. Traveled throughout Michigan overseeing projects, installments, customer issues, and sales of all Sears Home Improvement inventory.
Trained sales reps selling kitchens, siding, roofing, and windows. Assured financing options for all clients.
Experienced in reviewing financial metrics for each sales representative and took steps to increase sales.
Michigan National Ice Center Grand Rapids, MI
Vice President / Operations Manager August 1998 – October 2002
Organized the construction and build-out while managing ice skating facilities throughout the US.
Built new facilities; collaborated with contractors, community leaders, as well as city officials and clients that were primarily non-profits. Worked closely with several private investors to fund each project
West Michigan Hockey / Grand Rapids Griffins Grand Rapids, MI
Executive Director April 1995 – August 1998
Hired by Dan Devos to start building the Van Andel Arena and the Grand Rapid Griffins hockey team.
Worked with community groups and architects on the arena – obtaining approvals for design. Hired staff, held press conferences, set up offices, dealt with team issues, and helped to build/buy recreational facilities.
Grand Rapids Public Schools Grand Rapids, MI
Operations Manager / Building Manager July 1985 – April 1995
Handled all recreational facilities and buildings that were used by high school students and city residences.
Managed all contractors, staff, and programs in facilities, reporting directly to City Manager and Mayor.
Education
Mohawk College – Business School Hamilton, ON
Davenport College – Communications Grand Rapids, MI
Computer Skills
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), Smart Draw Plant Design, Auto Cad, Internet Design and Quark Express